Over 100 shops were gutted as a massive fire devastated two main markets and some houses in the wee hours of Saturday near High School Junction, Kohima. According to fire officials, the two main markets- AV Market, Paraciezie Market, a house with rows of shops and some residential houses were completely burnt down while two commercial buildings- Vishal Mega Mart and North Hill Arcade were partially damaged.
The fire reportedly broke out around 2.30 a.m., and was suspected to have been caused by short-circuit. However, no fatalities were reported in the incident. Properties worth crores of rupees were damaged in the devastating fire.
The two main markets- AV Market and Paraciezie Market, houses over 100 shops. It was also learnt that the houses of four families including the caretaker, who reside in AV Market were also damaged.
South Fire station 2nd OC Sevi Kera said that soon after receiving a call around 3 a.m. the fire tenders rushed to the spot. He said eight fire tenders from various fire stations in Kohima including Chiephobozou were pressed into action. It took several hours to bring the fire under control.
Meanwhile, the High school/Peraciezie traders union Kohima thanked the Kohima Village Youth Organisation, Lhisemia Youth Organisation, Lhisemia council and QRT Kohima village), Fire department (North South and Chiephobozou), Traffic Police Kohima (North), Paraciezie Youth Organisation, Paraciezie Baptist Church and 1st Assam Rifles personnel under the command of Col. SBB Sharma.
DDMA extend relief
District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) and DC Kohima Shanavas C along with officials visited the site to assess the damages and extended immediate financial assistance to the affected house owners and displaced families.
According to DIPR, the fire incident was also responded through the collaborative effort of various line departments which include Fire and Emergency services, District Disaster Management Authority, Kohima Municipal Council, district administration, 1st Assam Rifles, Peraciezie traders union, KVYO and other local organizations.